New York takes DUI/DWI charges very seriously. If your license was suspended as a result of a DWI/DUI charge, you may be able to obtain a hardship license. Contact our experienced New York criminal defense attorneys to learn more about the requirements and process for obtaining a hardship license. At The Law Offices of Carl […]

At The Law Office of Carl Spector, we have seen people wrongfully charged with gun-related offenses more often than we’d like to. It is important to understand New York State’s laws for purchasing and owning a firearm. If you have questions regarding how to responsibly and properly obtain a firearm permit, contact our experienced New […]

Domestic violence charges can have lasting impacts on your life and your family’s life. If you have been charged with domestic violence, it is in your best interest to retain an experienced New York criminal defense attorney to fight for your interests. Contact The Law Office of Carl Spector today to get started. What relationships […]

While the effects of driving under the influence of drugs are known, it, unfortunately, does not stop people from doing it. Drugged driving penalties can have a large impact on your everyday life, especially if you have been charged with more than one offense. If you have been charged for driving while under the influence […]

While jail time and high fines are often sufficient punishments for most crimes, the consequences usually do not end there. If you have a criminal record, you will most likely face serious repercussions for many years to come. Please continue reading and speak with our experienced Rockland County criminal defense attorney to learn more about […]

Many people who drive for a living have a commercial driver’s license (CDL). If you have a commercial driver’s license in New York, a DWI charge can have a serious impact on your livelihood. Read on to learn more about CDL DWIs in New York. What is a Commercial Vehicle? In New York, a commercial […]

A criminal record can have a serious impact on your future. Read on to learn more about the long-term consequences of a record and your potential options. What are the Long-Term Consequences of a Criminal Record? Committing a crime can only take a moment, but the consequences can last a lifetime, including: A criminal record […]

If you are caught driving while intoxicated as a minor, you may face severe consequences in the state of New York. New York is a zero-tolerance state, meaning if you have a blood alcohol content of 0.02% or higher behind the wheel, you will be charged with a DWI. If you are facing underage DWI […]

Fourth of July is a holiday that is filled with family fun, barbecuing, and beer. However, this holiday also marks a heightened risk for DWIs in the state of New York. New York does not take DWI charges lightly and will result in severe penalties. If you have been charged with a DWI over the […]

It is important to refresh your memory on New York’s fireworks regulations now that the 4th of July is around the corner. Continue reading to discover the regulations put into place to keep the citizens of New York safe this holiday. For the most part, fireworks are still illegal in the state of New York […]

There are two types of credit card fraud recognized in New York. One category includes stolen, canceled, or revoked credit cards while the other category regards forged credit cards. If you are facing credit card fraud charges in New York, it is best to retain the services of an experienced criminal defense attorney who will […]

Illegal drug possession is taken seriously in New York and comes with harsh penalties and convictions. Drug possession consequences vary depending on the circumstances surrounding the drug and the possession. However, it important to note that all drug crime penalties are severe in New York. Reach out to an experienced criminal defense attorney to fight […]

If you believe that you have had your property seized without being involved in criminal activity, it is time to take action. Continue reading to discover what civil asset forfeiture is in New York, how law enforcement can seize your property, and how to proceed with a civil asset forfeiture case. Reach out to our […]

Memorial Day unfortunately marks a heightened risk for drunk driving on the roads of New York. If you have been charged with a DWI over the long weekend, you are likely seeking the services of an experienced New York criminal attorney. You will require an understanding a knowledgeable attorney who can walk you through the […]

Back in November of 2019, the New Jersey Criminal Sentencing and Disposition Commission recommended eliminating mandatory minimum sentences for non-violent drug crimes. The commission also recommended modifying sentences for those currently incarcerated. As of April of 2021, the recommendation has been partially implemented by issuing AG Directive 2021-4 which instructed all prosecutors in New Jersey […]

Cybercrimes are punishable by law in New York state. Many cybercrimes may include felony charges. Some types of cybercrimes include internet sex crimes, unauthorized use of a computer, and computer trespass. Continue reading to learn what entails the different types of cybercrimes in New York and their penalties. If you are facing a cybercrime charge, […]

For the first time in over a decade, the Supreme Court will be reviewing a Second Amendment case. The last Second Amendment ruling was in 2008 when the majority ruled that a person has the right to keep a gun in their home for self-defense. This case was District of Columbia v. Heller.  The new […]

Receiving a DWI with a commercial driver’s license can put your future at risk. There are not many things more damaging to a career than receiving a DWI while operating a commercial vehicle. Continue reading to answer any questions you may have regarding this process and its charges. Reach out to our experienced New York […]

Though you may not be able have your record expunged in New York, having your record sealed can offer the possibility of getting a new job or being able to live in a desired area. Many view having their record sealed as a new start on life. Continue reading to have your questions answered about […]

The terms robbery and burglary might seem interchangeable, but in the eyes of the law, they have very different meanings and penalties. Read on to learn the difference between robbery and burglary, the penalties for each term in the state of New York, and the degrees of each term. If you have been charged with […]

As you may know, DWIs are among the most damaging traffic-related offenses that an individual can face, and in many cases, receiving a DWI will result in you losing your license, installing the ignition interlock device, paying high fines, and even going to jail. That being said, if you were charged with an aggravated DWI […]

This Easter weekend, there is a very good chance that you traveled to see friends or family and to celebrate the holiday. While Easter is generally a pleasant holiday for all who celebrate, if you had a couple of drinks and were arrested for driving while under the influence, you are most likely now in […]

Recently, it was announced that the use of recreational marijuana was legalized here in New York State. This will allow for the legal production and sale of marijuana to all adults over the age of 21. Not only will the new law legalize recreational marijuana, but it will also positively impact many people who have […]

There are few things more important than hiring a knowledgeable Rockland County criminal defense attorney when you are facing criminal charges. Below are some of the most important questions you should ask yourself before going ahead and retaining the services of an attorney. Does your criminal defense attorney exclusively practice criminal law? One of the […]

When someone is stopped under the suspicion of driving while under the influence of alcohol, there is a very good chance that very serious penalties may ensue. That being said, for this reason, there is a very good chance that you may consider simply not providing a breath sample into a breathalyzer test when asked, […]

If you are someone who was recently arrested for a DWI, you are most likely looking at a wide array of potential penalties that may change your life for years to come. Unfortunately, one mistake can result in very serious repercussions. Among high fines, the loss of your license, and potential jail time, you may […]

If you have recently been arrested for the possession or sale of marijuana, it is critical that you do not wait to hire an experienced Rockland County criminal defense attorney who can work to fight your charges. As you know, low-level possession charges have been decriminalized, there are still various penalties you may face for […]

Our great country was founded on the principle that our citizens have the inalienable right to keep and bear arms. Unfortunately, here in New York State, gun rights are very restrictive, which is why if you are looking to purchase, own, use, or carry a firearm here in NYS, it is critical that you understand […]

Driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol is one of the most serious offenses a motorist can commit. Unfortunately, many people throughout the United States are charged with DWIs every single day. That being said, you may not know that you can also be charged with a DWI (more specifically, a DWAI-drug) if […]

When someone is charged with a crime, they risk spending years in jail, facing high fines, and obtaining a criminal record. That being said, certain crimes carry different penalties. In most cases, misdemeanor charges are reserved for crimes that are on the lower end of the spectrum, while felony charges are generally reserved for the […]

While jail time and high fines are often sufficient punishments for most crimes, the consequences often do not end there. If you obtain a criminal record, you will most likely face serious repercussions for many years to come. Please continue reading and speak with our experienced Rockland County criminal defense attorney to learn more about […]

If you are someone who has been charged with allegedly committing an act of assault, you are most likely considering your legal options going forward, as the ramifications of these charges can be life-altering. That being said, our seasoned New York criminal defense attorney has helped countless individuals fight assault charges over the years, and […]

There are few charges that are more damaging than DWIs. Unfortunately, when someone receives a DWI, there is a very good chance that person will lose his or her license. Rather obviously, losing a driver’s license can have far-reaching effects, including having a drastic impact on his or her social life, and, perhaps most importantly, […]

There are few things worse than being convicted of a crime. Unfortunately, a conviction can carry far more than a simple jail sentence. However, for many, they are offered to go on probation in lieu of jail. This is a tremendous offer, as probation can allow an individual to move on with his or her […]

This New Year’s, many people made the mistake of operating their motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol. If you are under the age of 21 and you were caught doing so, there is a very good chance that you are now facing very serious penalties. Please continue reading and speak with our knowledgeable […]

There are few charges more devastating than those involving driving while intoxicated. Unfortunately, there are many people this New Year’s Eve that will be charged with driving while under the influence of alcohol as part of Governor Cuomo’s Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over campaign. This year, law enforcement agencies throughout New York State will […]

There are few things worse than seeing flashing lights pull up behind you. Unfortunately, if you were recently caught driving without a license, you are most likely worried about the consequences you may face as a result. Whether you’ve received a simple infraction or a misdemeanor/felony charge, you must continue reading and speak with our […]

As you know, texting while driving is both illegal and unsafe. In fact, New York State was the first state across the country to make it illegal to use a handheld mobile device while operating a motor vehicle, and since then, the penalties for doing so have only become more severe. Texting while driving has […]

Last week, on December 3rd, New York State Governor Cuomo announced the results of “Operation Hardhat,” which was an initiative taken to help ensure the safety of construction workers on New York State’s thruways. In all, law enforcement issues 1,779 traffic tickers from July through November on Thruway-operated work zones. The majority of the tickets […]

As you know, it is wrong to steal. However, we all make mistakes, and if you are someone who is currently facing shoplifting charges in New York State, you have a lot to consider. These charges can cause you to obtain a criminal record upon conviction, which is why you must retain the services of […]

As you know, Thanksgiving Weekend is one of the most widely-celebrated holidays every year. As part of celebrating the holiday, many people have a drink or two. Unfortunately, this makes Thanksgiving among the most dangerous days to be out on the road, as many people make the mistake of driving while intoxicated. If this happens […]

When someone receives a DWI in New York State, they can count on the fact that without experienced representation, their lives will virtually be turned upside down for the foreseeable future. Unfortunately, if you are someone who recently received a DWI with a minor in the vehicle, you are most likely now looking at even […]

When someone who is under the age of 16 commits a crime in New York State, they will be tried as a juvenile. These cases are notoriously complex, as the direction the legal process will take largely depends on the circumstances of the alleged crime. Our firm has helped countless juveniles and their parents through […]

Halloween is among the most widely-celebrated holidays every year, and if you are someone who celebrated by attending a costume party, there is a very good chance you had a drink or two. Of course, this is totally fine, as long as you did not plan on driving afterward. That being said, if you did […]

If you are considering becoming an Uber driver in New York State, though you have a DUI on your record, there is a very good chance you may be wondering if you are still allowed to work with Uber. Uber has very high standards when it comes to vetting its potential drivers, which is why […]

If you are someone who recently received a speeding ticket, you are most likely wondering what to do. Should you just please guilty and take the penalty? Should you plead not guilty and see what happens? In many cases, people do the latter, and they do not hire an attorney. However, depending on your situation, […]

There are few charges that are more damaging to someone’s reputation and life than those of domestic violence. While of course, many of these charges are legitimate, the unfortunate reality is that in many situations, domestic violence charges are entirely unfounded, and sometimes even outright lies. Being wrongly charged with domestic violence is an incredibly […]

There are few things more damaging to a record than being convicted of a drug charge. Unfortunately, New York State cracks down extremely hard on all those facing drug charges, and if you are being charged with a drug crime, you need an experienced Rockland County criminal defense attorney on your side. Please continue reading […]

There are various crimes that one can commit, and generally speaking, when we think of crimes, we think of those that involve drugs or violence of some sort. That being said, some of the most heinous crimes do not involve violence at all–those crimes are known as white-collar crimes. In most cases, white-collar crimes involve […]

Everybody knows it’s wrong to text and drive, however, many people still do it, for various reasons. That being said, if you are facing a cell phone violation in New York State, you are looking at very serious consequences, which is why you must continue reading and retain the services of an experienced Rockland County […]

There are few criminal charges that are more devastating than receiving a DWI. Unfortunately, if you receive a DWI with a commercial driver’s license, both your livelihood and your future as a whole are at risk. Please continue reading and speak with our knowledgeable Rockland County criminal defense attorney to learn more about DWIs with […]

This Labor Day, many people will celebrate by having a drink or two with their friends and family. Of course, there is absolutely nothing wrong with doing so, as long as those who drink do not drive afterward. That being said, if you are someone who is caught driving under the influence of alcohol, you […]

There are few charges more damaging to a driving record than reckless driving. If you are facing a reckless driving charge in NYS, you must read this blog and speak with our experienced Rockland County traffic violations attorney to learn more about the consequences you may face and how we can help you fight them. […]

Recently, Governor Cuomo signed new legislation that mandates all individuals who are over 16 years old to wear seatbelts, even in the backseat. In past years, if you were at least 16 years of age, wearing a seat belt in the backseat was not mandatory, however, now, with the new law in place, all motorists […]

Last week, Governor Cuomo announced that there would be a week-long crackdown on speeding across New York State. As a result, police were making more patrols and were focused on ticketing individuals who were driving over the speed limit. To be exact, the crackdown was from August 6 to August 12. When speaking about the […]

As you know, Governor Cuomo, over the past couple of weeks, has appointed a task force to crack down on bars and restaurants across the state who have violated some of the various COVID-related safety measures put in place, such as limiting the number of patrons in an establishment at a time. Over the past […]

In response to the coronavirus pandemic and various storefronts now finally reopening to the public, Governor Cuomo has recently appointed a task force in New York State to ensure bars and restaurants are all abiding by the various social distancing/coronavirus-related safety measures. Unfortunately, there have been numerous cases reported of various businesses violating these orders. […]

If you are someone who was convicted of a crime, though you were offered probation in lieu of going to jail, you should consider yourself lucky, in some ways. However, if you recently were allegedly caught violating your terms of probation, there is a very good chance that you are facing very serious legal trouble. […]

At some point in our lives, we are all bound to get a speeding ticket. However, this does not mean you should take a speeding ticket lightly. Many people do not think to hire an attorney to help fight a speeding ticket, but oftentimes, this can save them greatly in the long run. Please continue […]

Everybody knows that when someone drives under the influence of alcohol and is arrested, they will most likely receive a DWI. That being said, you should also note that if you drive while under the influence of drugs, such as marijuana, and are arrested for doing so, you may also receive a DWI. Please continue […]

Shoplifting is one of the most commonly committed crimes, however, if you are someone who has been charged with theft in New York State, you face very serious ramifications, potential jail time, and obtaining a criminal record among them. When you obtain a criminal record, you will find it harder to get certain jobs, take […]

As a criminal defense firm, we see people wrongly charged with gun-related offenses all the time. That is why below, we have compiled a short guide to legally purchasing and owning a gun in New York State to help you stay out of trouble and be a responsible gun owner. Here are some of the […]

Though states across the country have legalized the recreational use of marijuana, New York State is not yet one of them, and as such, if you are convicted of a marijuana-related charge, there is a very good chance that you will face significant legal consequences. Though the state has recently moved to decriminalize low-level possession […]

The First Amendment to the United States Constitution specifically guarantees people the right to peaceably assemble, and to petition the government for a redress of grievances when those people no longer believe the government and its various institutions are upholding their rights. As mass protests over the untimely death of George Floyd sweep the nation, […]

There are few things more damaging to a reputation, and, in this case, a career, than receiving a DWI with a CDL. Please read on and reach out to our experienced Rockland County criminal defense attorney today to learn more about how we can help you through every step of the legal process going forward. […]

Memorial Day is a day of celebration, and, as such, many people will be getting behind the wheel after having one too many. Though the smartest thing to do, is, of course, not drink and drive, many people do so anyway. If you are arrested for a DWI in New York State, you must read […]

There are few scenarios more frightening than being pulled over by a police officer, especially if that officer suspects you have been driving under the influence of alcohol. When an officer suspects this, he or she will ask you to take a breathalyzer test, wherein you will blow into the machine that informs the officer […]

If you have a criminal matter on your hands, you need an attorney who can effectively represent your interests so you receive the best possible outcome. Obtaining a criminal record can change someone’s life forever, so choosing an attorney to prevent that is a big decision. Please continue reading to learn more about all the […]

Recently, the Governor’s office put out a statement declaring that domestic violence cases in the month of April are up 30 percent from this month last year, and incident calls to the state were up 15 percent in the month of March. This is an alarming number, and if you are someone who has recently […]

There are few charges more devastating to a family than that of domestic violence and child endangerment. Unfortunately, many of these charges are unfounded, misconstrued, or simply untrue. That is why if you are facing child endangerment charges, you must continue reading and speak with Attorney Spector today. Our firm is here to help you […]

In the FY 2021 Enacted Budget, New York State Governor Andrew Cuomo has signed into legislation laws that with significantly change existing gun laws in New York. As you may know, NYS is already incredibly strict when it comes to gun laws, which is why this new law has many Second Amendment advocated up in […]

In the wake of the spread of COVID-19, many people are now finding themselves susceptible to various scams associated with the virus. Some of the most prominent types of theft, fraud, and other scams our firm is seeing are as follows: Charity scams: Many people are now receiving calls and emails regarding assistance to help […]

In the past week, Mayor Bill de Blasio made an announcement that 300 non-violent elderly inmates that have less than one year left in their sentence will be released from prison early in an effort to halt the spread of the new coronavirus within the prison. You should note, however, that these inmates are non-violent […]

Although many courts across the state have closed for all non-essential legal matters, they remain open for those charged with domestic violence. There are few things more damaging to a reputation and a family than being falsely accused of domestic violence. New York State has a mandatory arrest policy in place for when a felony […]

Because of the recent coronavirus outbreak in New York State and around the world, New York courts will be closing for all non-essential legal matters, of which we will discuss more in the following paragraphs. In a memo to court personnel on March 15, Chief Administrative Judge Lawrence Marks said, “Effective 5 p.m. on Monday, […]

With the new coronavirus reaching the prevalence that it has, there are several things you should keep in mind to ensure your safety, as well as the safety of those around you. Please keep the following in mind to prevent the spread of COVID-19: Continuously wash your hands with warm, soapy water, especially if you […]

New York State is notoriously harsh on those who break gun laws, which is why if you are facing gun charges, you need an experienced Rockland County criminal defense attorney on your side. Gun crimes are broken down into various categories. The more severe the crime, the harsher the penalties you may face. Regardless of […]

New York State is known for its harsh gun laws. When people do not abide by those laws, they receive gun charges, which frequently result in years in jail. Below, you will learn more about obtaining a gun permit legally so that you do not face such charges in the future. However, if you do, […]

We all make mistakes, and Attorney Spector understands that. This is why our firm has been dedicated to helping those charged with crimes in Rockland County for over 30 years. Do not let yourself be bogged down by the long-lasting effects of a criminal record. If you are someone facing criminal charges, you should read […]

Marijuana, despite talks of legalizing the drug, remains illegal for recreational use in New York State. If you are someone who has been charged with marijuana possession or the sale of marijuana, why run the risk of having your reputation and permanent record tarnished with a drug conviction? All you have to do is read […]

If you have recently been arrested on drug charges in New York State, you must not wait another minute. The best thing you can do right now is read on and reach out to our experienced New York criminal defense attorney to learn more about the consequences of drug charges, and how our firm can […]

Though we all know that driving under the influence is both dangerous and illegal, it does not stop everyone from doing so. Many people think that DWIs solely deal with driving while under the influence of alcohol. The truth is, you can also receive a similar offense for driving under the influence of drugs, known […]

New York courts crack down extremely hard on all those charged with DWI offenses, and it is no secret why; driving under the influence is extremely dangerous. However, that does not make everyone who gets behind the wheel after having a drink a “bad person,” though the New York court system may treat them as […]

New York DWI Lawyer Providing Strong Defense Against Blood Alcohol Content Tests New York DWI Lawyer Carl Spector knows the law when it comes to blood alcohol content tests. If you have been pulled over and charged for drunk driving in New York, you need to contact our experienced New York DWI lawyer to fight […]

Are you facing a CDL suspension due to a DWI? You may be worried about how this is going to affect your life. To minimize the consequences, please contact New York DWI lawyer Carl Spector for a free, confidential consultation. New York DWI Lawyer Defending Against CDL Suspension Compared to other drivers, every driver holding […]

Top Rated New York suspended license lawyer Defending Your Right to Drive When you have your license suspended you will lose your freedom to drive for a period of time before it is returned to you. New York suspended license lawyer Carl Spector has over 28 years defending New York motorists and helping them get […]

Have you been issued an open container ticket? You may be worried about how this can negatively affect your future employment. If you want dependable representation, please call New York Open Container Ticket Lawyer Carl Spector for a free consultation. Experienced New York Criminal Attorney Defending Against Open Container Tickets Within New York City, an […]

Getting arrested or receiving a desk appearance ticket (DAT) for a marijuana-related crime in New York City may have some significant consequences. However if handled properly the consequences could be dramatically reduced or eliminated. Two of the most common marijuana related offenses are: Criminal Possession of Marijuana in the Fifth Degree (New York State Penal […]

NYC Criminal Defense Lawyer Discusses Possession of Cocaine Charges As an experienced New York cocaine possession lawyer, I have often defended clients who have been arrested for possession of cocaine. Simple possession of cocaine is a misdemeanor punishable by jail time and fines. You could receive a permanent criminal record without proper legal representation. New […]

The sale of most drugs is illegal in the State of New York, and the significance of drug-related crimes is far greater within or near a school zone. Because schools and their immediate environs are intended to be safe spaces, any breach of that safety can constitute criminal activity. If someone you know has been […]

Under New York law, you are only eligible once in your lifetime for a marijuana ACD. ACD stands for an Adjournment in Contemplation of Dismissal. This is offered to people that are arrested or charged in a summons or desk appearance ticket (DAT) with possession or even in some circumstances with low level sale of […]

In New York an arraignment is the first time you see a judge after you have been arrested and charged with a DWI, DUI or DUAI. There are several very important issues that arise at the arraignment that everyone should be aware of. 1. At the arraignment you are informed about each and every charge […]

If you wind up with an ignition interlock device installed in your vehicle you will want to know what is necessary to legally have it removed. The process is called de-installation. The installation or service provider can only remove the ignition interlock device after they have been given a Certification of Completion or a Letter […]

When a police officer first encounters a motorist and suspects that they are under the influence of alcohol or drugs, the police may question the motorist while conducting their initial investigation. The police may be able to lawfully gather information from you at this early stage of their encounter with you and not have to […]

Over the years, drugs in New York City have been glorified, vilified, and partially legalized. New York’s drug laws and the city’s policing policies are constantly a source of controversy, and attitudes toward drug use continue to change at the local and national level. This leaves many people confused about the current status of drug […]

As social attitudes regarding marijuana have changed, so has the drug’s legality. It is now legal in New York to use marijuana for medicinal purposes, Mayor de Blasio’s administration has instructed the NYPD to issue summonses instead of arresting marijuana users, and some lawmakers in Albany are even fighting for the legalization of recreational use. […]

Interviewer: I think it’s because the prosecution leans towards this idea that, “Well, he’s done it before this is why we’re prosecuting him harder now or more harshly now and we don’t want to believe anything.” Is that typical of the prosecution? Carl Spector: Yes, it is a typical mindset of prosecutors. The Individual Faces […]

The Fourth Amendment guarantees that everyone in the United States is protected from illegal search and seizure. This means that, unless an officer of the law has probable cause or a warrant from a judge, no police officer can search private property, such as a person’s home or motor vehicle. If a police officer knocks […]

False representation is a common crime in New York, and you should not under any circumstance impersonate another individual or lie about your identity. There are major legal ramifications to be faced if you steal another person’s credit card, use a fake ID, or steal someone’s identity. Our office can help you if you have […]

In New York, DWI and DUI are used interchangeably outside the courtrooms and in everyday language. Since there are no references in the New York law to DUI as a legal term most attorneys and judges will simply refer to drunk driving cases as DWI cases. DWI stands for driving while intoxicated, DUI means driving […]